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Topeka, Kansas

This historic Union Pacific depot has been restored to its 1927 grandeur as The Great Overland Station. Located along the Oregon trail, the Station tells the story of Topeka and its railroad heritage. The All Veterans Memorial, Corridor of Fifty Flags, and BNSF Railway Plaza is a signature landmark for Topeka.

Designed by renowned architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood, the beautiful Union Pacific passenger station was reported to be "one of the finest passenger stations on the line" when it opened January 27, 1927. With its 34-foot ceiling and ornate glazed terra cotta ornamentation, the elegant building is perhaps the finest representation of classic railroad architecture in Kansas.

The station was built on a site already rich in history. Here, the Pappan brothers ferried Oregon Trail pioneers across the Kaw River, while Indian Chief Burnett traded supplies and horses with the sojourners. Slaves seeking their freedom crossed here on their way north along the "underground railroad." Future Vice President Charles Curtis, grandson of Louis Pappan, was born on a corner of the property. George Armstrong Custer, Buffalo Bill and Wild Bill Hickok were frequent visitors to the bustling frontier community on the north bank of the river. The area from the river front through the North Topeka business district contains historic buildings, largely original and intact. The early history of our community survives in North Topeka, waiting to be brought to life.

The last passenger train left the station May 2, 1971. The building was later remodeled for railroad offices, abandoned in 1988, and damaged by fire in 1992. At that point, Railroad Heritage, Inc. secured a lease from the Union Pacific Railroad to prevent the building's demolition. A Use and Feasibility Study indicated that a museum celebrating railroad heritage was the most desirable use for the station. The Great Overland Station Project Team was established to direct efforts to preserve the station and transform it into a railroad heritage museum. In June 2004, The Great Overland Station opened its doors again as a community landmark.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Cedar Crest

The French-Norman style house which was built by Frank P. MacLennan in 1928, is home to the governor of Kansas. It is the focal point of a 200-acre estate overlooking the Kansas river. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the estate features several ponds and hiking trails.

Topeka, KS Famous Homes

Washburn University

Established in 1865, Washburn University is one of Topeka's greatest assets and is the only municipal university in the nation. The 160

Topeka, KS Colleges

Lake Shawnee Recreational Area

Lake Shawnee is a man-made, 411-acre lake offering fishing, boating, sailing and swimming. Within the 1,600-acre park surrounding the lake are foot trails, fish hatcheries (for stocking the lake), a golf course, a marina, tennis courts, shelter houses, horseback trails, ball diamonds, and gardens.

Topeka, KS Recreation

Kansas Expocentre

The Kansas Expocentre sits in the heart of Topeka and thrives with meetings, conventions, concerts, trade shows and special events. Home to Cider Days, championship rodeos and the Shawnee County Fair, the Expocentre is a multi-purpose facility which features over 200,000

Topeka, KS Venues

Kansas State Capitol

Located in downtown Topeka, the State Capitol architecture exemplifies the strength of the pioneer spirit. Dating back to 1866, the Capitol houses Kansas'

Topeka, KS State Capitols

Things to do near Topeka, KS

Sports Center Golf Complex

Course Access: PublicHoles: 9Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...

Melvern Wildlife Area

There are over 13,500 acres available for hunting at Melvern Lake. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks manages 10,727...